FAIRFAX COUNTY VIRGINIA

Nestled in the northern portion of the Commonwealth of Virginia is Fairfax County. Anchored by its county seat, the city of Fairfax, the county spans 391 square miles and a population of about 1,081,725 resides there making it the most populous jurisdiction in Virginia. Approximately 13.6 percent of Virginia’s population resides in Fairfax County, which is home to many important government agencies as well as Fortune 500 companies.

The county is bounded on the north and southeast by the Potomac River. Just across the river to the northeast is the country’s capital Washington, DC. Due to its proximity to the capital, many of Fairfax County’s northeastern communities, including Reston and Falls Church, are considered a part of the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Multiple public transportation routes make the commute into Washington, DC from Fairfax County’s communities. Several Washington Metro lines run through the county, including the Orange, Blue, Yellow and Silver lines. The Virginia Railway Express also provides commuter rail service into Union Station in Washington, DC.

Working in Fairfax County

The economy in Fairfax County revolves heavily around professional services and technology. The area is home to a number of government agencies such as the Central Intelligence Agency in Langley, which helps to provide a stream of steady employment to those who live in the area.

Throughout the region, the Federal government accounts for about 23,361 jobs in Fairfax County. Other top employers include the Fairfax County Public School system and the county itself.

Technology is also a large part of the economy in Fairfax County. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Fairfax County has a higher concentration of workers employed in the technology field than anywhere in the country, including Silicon Valley. The county has a number of Fortune 500 companies housed within its borders, the majority of which are located among Reston, Falls Church and Tysons Corner.

Living in Fairfax County

Fairfax County is a wonderful place to work, but is equally a great place to play as well. The county has over 24,000 acres of public parkland that includes nine recreation centers, five nature centers, a working farm and mill, equestrian trails and golf courses.

Academia is also an important part of the Fairfax quality of life. George Mason University is located just outside the city limits of Fairfax and is the source of many jobs as well as lively events for residents to attend. Arts and culture are alive and well in Fairfax County as there are numerous events offered throughout the year by the university as well as the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, which is a venue located on 130 acres of national parkland.

Those who revel in the history of the nation will enjoy the various historical sites located throughout Fairfax County, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, which is one of the most popular private homes in the United States.